On this date almost a century ago a tornado hit a small town in southern Indiana.
People turned to newspapers for news about its destruction.
“On March 23, 1917, a massive tornado swept through New Albany, cutting a path of destruction three miles long by a half-mile wide. Historic records indicate it was on the scale of an F4, and one of the most devastating storms to ever come through Indiana. Forty-five people were killed, and 300 buildings destroyed. The tornado made national news in its day.”
— “Twister: Looking back at the 1917 tornado that decimated New Albany”
News and Tribune, 2007
Here is an excerpt from an Indianapolis News story:
“About 300 dwellings, factories and other buildings either destroyed or damaged — property loss estimated at $1,500,000 — path of the storm a scene of desolation which was wrought in three minutes — known dead number thirty-five, but more bodies are expected to be found — militiamen and policemen on guard — doctor needed.”
The Alexandria (Indiana) Times-Tribune:
“….The Deering baby, about 6 months old, was found floating in a small stream into which it had been borne by the wind. The child was alive and clinging to a dog which apparently had been killed by the storm. The child died in the arms of the rescuer….
….The streets in the path of the storm were a mass of wreckage and it was soon seen that outside assistance was needed to meet the situation. An appeal was made to the city authorities of Louisville, who sent a large number of policemen to the scene.
….A call was made on the governor for state troops. Numbers of citizens from surrounding towns hastened to New Albany and offered such aid as they were able to render.”
Page one news from the Huntington (Indiana) Press:
